Assistant Labour Commissioner, NCT Delhi issues Advisory on operation of private offices in Delhi due to hazardous level of air quality in Delhi

Immediate employer relevance

Private institutions and corporate offices are expected to operationalise work-from-home or reduced physical attendance arrangements in line with GRAP directions, with specific reference to limits on physical staffing and measures to minimise office-commute vehicular movement.

Core intent

The advisories focus on curbing commuter traffic to limit incremental pollution during periods of poor air quality, while enabling continuity of work through remote or staggered operations.

Current measure (referenced as moved for implementation)

“NCR State Governments/GNCTD to take a decision on allowing public, municipal and private offices to work on 50% strength and the rest to work from home.”

Order reference	Operational direction for private offices in NCT of Delhi
F.No.10(39)/VENV/2021/6539-6556 dated 24.11.2025	All private offices functioning within NCT of Delhi shall operate with not more than 50% staff physically attending the workplace. The remaining staff shall mandatorily work from home. Private entities are further expected to implement staggered working hours where feasible, ensure strict compliance with work-from-home norms, and minimise vehicular movement associated with office commute.

Enforcement note

Employers are advised to adhere to the directions issued under the above order. Non-compliance is stated as punishable under Sections 15 and 16 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and other applicable laws.

Reported operational and health disruptions

Dense smog conditions have been associated with travel disruptions including flight cancellations and delays, train delays, and increased hospital visits for breathing difficulty and eye irritation. Authorities have been described as banning certain construction activities, restricting diesel generators and vehicles, deploying water sprinklers, and permitting schools and offices to keep people at home. Seasonal factors mentioned include crop-residue burning, temperature inversion effects, and cumulative emissions from vehicles, construction and industry.

Workforce deployment

Implement work-from-home wherever directed or feasible; where physical attendance is permitted, align staffing to a 50% physical attendance model for NCT of Delhi private offices as referenced, and use staggered hours to reduce peak-hour commuting.

Documentation and audit readiness

Maintain internal communications evidencing the applicable work arrangement, roster, and attendance controls. Record exemptions (if applicable) and operational necessity justifications for essential roles.

Commute minimisation

Reduce office-commute vehicle movement by limiting in-office days, using shift staggering, encouraging remote meetings, and consolidating on-site tasks into fewer attendance days.

Employee well-being

Circulate health advisories aligned to official directions, provide flexibility for vulnerable employees, and ensure managers apply remote working norms consistently without avoidable escalation.